Selectively attachable bucket handle

ABSTRACT

A selectively attachable bucket handle for a bucket configured to detachably engage with, and accommodate, certain features of a bucket such that the bucket handle is rigidly secured to a bucket, and such that the bucket handle translates a lifting force, applied to the bucket handle, onto a bucket. The bucket handle is also configured to detachably engage with a bucket without preventing a bucket from receiving a lid. The bucket handle is configured to detachably engage with a bucket such that the rest of the bucket handle projects perpendicularly away from a side of a bucket.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to a bucket handle. Morespecifically, the present invention relates to a selectively attachablebucket handle. In certain embodiments, the present invention relates toa bucket handle comprising a first attachment component, a secondattachment component, each being integral with a handling component.

Related Art

There are countless types of commercially available receptacles. Utilitypails, multi-purpose pails, all-purpose pails, multi-mix containers,“Big Gripper” buckets, and gallon buckets are only a few examples.Despite this diversity, the classic Home Depot® Leaktite® 3/5 gallonbucket (also known as Homer®'s All-Purpose Bucket) has become ubiquitousin the market. This type of bucket and similar buckets are readilyavailable for purchase at most home-improvement stores.

This type of classic bucket has features that facilitate the receptionof various types of commercially available lids. For example, the bucketmay receive a classic “easy off” lid that primarily engages with the rimof the bucket. The bucket may also receive a classic rigid hold lid thatprimarily engages with the flange(s) proximal to the rim. The bucket mayfurther receive a screw lid sealing system (that is, a two-piece sealingsystem that transforms the bucket into a generally airtight storagecontainer with an elastomeric gasket) that also primarily engages withthe flange(s) proximal to the rim.

Additionally, the same features that facilitate the reception of thevarious lids also facilitate the efficient and effective transportationand storage of the bucket. For example, in a stack, the collared skirt,proximal to the rim but separated by the flange(s), is spacedsufficiently away from the primary cylindrical side wall of the bucketso as to receive the rim of another bucket. This provides for a stablestack, upwards of ten buckets high, in a common skid. Moreover, thecollared skirt is positioned at a height along the primary cylindricalside wall such that the bucket cannot stack too deeply within anotherback. This helps avoid the formation of negative pressure pockets, whichcomplicate stack separation, between the stacked buckets.

Furthermore, although the collared skirt seemingly provides a spacewherein the rim of another bucket may become trapped, the bucketcomprises vertical planar ribs to help prevent this. Each verticalplanar rib is interposed radially in between the collared skirt and theprimary cylindrical side wall such that the collared skirt is buttressedby the ribs. Not only does this feature help prevent the rim of anotherbucket from engaging too deeply into the space, it also spaces the rimaway from the articulating ends of the wire bail handle. The ends of thewire bail handle extend into the space between the collared skirt andthe side wall for purposes of attaching the handle to the bucket. Thisfeature, therefore, also allows for the wire bail handle of any bucketin a stack to rest loosely upon the lower bucket (for compact storage ofbucket stacks in a common skid), and to be pivotally available forseparation of the stack.

Unfortunately, despite the many beneficial features of this type ofclassic bucket, a disadvantage of the bucket relates to the movement andhandling of the bucket during use. As anyone who has ever loaded up thistype of bucket with a relatively dense substance can attest, this typeof bucket becomes very heavy and is difficult to lift, eitherindividually or as a team.

First, the wire bail handle is more of burden than a tool for anindividual lifter of a heavy bucket. The wire bail handle only pivotsaround the opening of the bucket, which, therefore, requires the wirebail handle to stick straight up for lifting. This orientates the wirebail handle in a very difficult position (parallel to the centrallongitudinal axis of the bucket) for the exertion of a lifting force,often requiring the user to bicep curl the wire bail handle, or worse.Most users, lacking sufficient bicep curling strength, resort to anawkward lifting position that places the bucket in between their legs orto one side. The user then, generally, has to waddle hunched forward, orto one side, towards a desired location while simultaneously lifting thebucket with one or two hands.

Second, the wire bail handle is no easier to use by two people than itis by one person. Because the cylindrical wire bail is relatively thinin diameter and has a smooth outer surface, it is generally painful tomanually engage with. Although the wire bail handle provides aferrule-type plastic hand piece as a fix, this fix is only useful to anindividual lifter because the plastic hand piece is positioned centrallyalong the length of the bail loop (the central position being the mostcommon lifting point for an individual lifter). Two lifters, on theother hand, lifting a heavy bucket as a team would engage with the bailloop at two opposite lifting points closer to the bucket engagementports along the collared skirt. This makes any engagement uncomfortable,as the bail loop is not only sticking straight up (which makes applyingthe lifting force difficult) but also thin and difficult to grip (whichmakes slippage more likely).

There is, therefore, a need in the art for additional improvements tothe handle of the classic bucket. Accordingly, there is now providedwithin this disclosure an improved bucket handle overcoming theaforementioned difficulties and longstanding problems inherent in theart. These problems have been solved in a simple, convenient, and highlyeffective way by which to construct a bucket handle.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly, the present invention is a selectively attachable bucket handlefor a bucket. The bucket may have a cylindrical side wall, a collaredskirt, a first flange, and a second flange. The side wall terminates atone end in a rim. The collared skirt, the first flange, and the secondflange each, respectively, are integral with the side wall, and runcircumferentially around the entirety of the side wall. The collaredskirt is spaced outwardly from the side wall such that a space isdefined between the collared skirt and the side wall. The space runningcircumferentially around the entirety of the side wall has a pluralityof vertical planar ribs interposed radially along the space. The ribsbuttress the collared skirt. The bucket may be configured and structureddifferently in other embodiments.

In one illustrative embodiment, a selectively attachable bucket handlefor a bucket comprises a handling component, a first attachmentcomponent, and a second attachment component. The first and secondattachment components are each integral with and spaced from thehandling component. The first attachment component is configured todetachably engage with a certain length of the collared skirt and with acorresponding rib of a bucket. The second attachment component isconfigured to detachably engage with a certain length along the firstflange of the bucket.

When the selectively attachable bucket handle is detachably engaged witha bucket, via the first attachment component and the second attachmentcomponent, the first attachment component and the second attachmentcomponent are fixed in place along the length of the collared skirt andalong the length of the first flange, respectively. More specifically,the length along the collared skirt of the bucket is on the sideadjacent to the space between the collared skirt and the side wall, andthe length along the first flange of the bucket is on the side adjacentto the collared skirt.

Moreover, when the selectively attachable bucket handle is detachablyengaged with a bucket, the first attachment component, the secondattachment component, and the handling component are integrated suchthat a lifting force, applied to the handling component, is translatedonto the bucket.

The first attachment component, the second attachment component, and thehandling component of the selectively attachable bucket handle can beelongated. The longitudinal length of the first attachment component isparallel to the longitudinal length of the second attachment componentsuch that a space is defined there between. The first attachmentcomponent of the selectively attachable bucket handle can have a ribgroove along its length. The rib groove configured to receive thecorresponding rib of a bucket.

Moreover, the first attachment component and the second attachmentcomponent can define notches or extensions along their length. Thenotches and extensions are configured to make removal of any moldedcomponent pieces of the selectively attachable bucket handle from themanufacturing mold easier during fabrication. The notches and extensionsalso are configured for facilitating a stable stacking of the buckethandles during transportation, storage, or display.

The longitudinal length of the handling component is parallel to thespace between the first attachment component and the second attachmentcomponent. The handling component of the selectively attachable buckethandle is configured for manual engagement by a user. The handlingcomponent of the selectively attachable bucket handle also can have anon-slip surface defining a set of ergonomic contours.

When the bucket handle is detachably engaged with a bucket, via thefirst attachment component and the second attachment component, thehandling component of the selectively attachable bucket handle extendsaway from the bucket and is positioned to receive a lifting forceparallel to, but laterally offset from, the central longitudinal axis ofthe bucket. When the bucket handle is detachably engaged with a bucket,via the first attachment component and the second attachment component,neither the first attachment component, nor the second attachmentcomponent, nor the handling component of the selectively attachablebucket handle interfere with the second flange or the rim.

The first attachment component and the second attachment component eachare integral with and spaced from the handling component. The firstattachment component can be configured to detachably engage with a firstattachment region of a bucket. The second attachment component can beconfigured to detachably engage with a second attachment region of abucket.

When the bucket handle is detachably engaged with the bucket, the firstattachment component, the second attachment component, and the handlingcomponent are integrated such that a lifting force, applied to thehandling component, is translated onto the bucket. Moreover, when thebucket handle is detachably engaged with the bucket and the handlingcomponent is receiving a lifting force parallel to the centrallongitudinal axis of the bucket, the first attachment component canpivot about, and then is fixed in place along, the first attachmentregion. Moreover, when the bucket handle is detachably engaged with thebucket, and the handling component is receiving a lifting force parallelto the central longitudinal axis of the bucket, the second attachmentcomponent presses against, and is fixed in place along, the secondattachment region.

The first attachment component of the selectively attachable buckethandle can define a skirt groove along its length. The skirt groove canbe configured to engage with a length along the first attachment regionof the bucket.

The first attachment component and the second attachment component,each, integral with, and spaced from, the handling component. The firstattachment component and the second attachment component defining anattachment space there between. The first attachment component defininga first groove along its length. The first groove accessible from theattachment space and configured to engage with a length along a firstattachment region of a bucket. The second attachment componentconfigured to detachably engage with a second attachment region of thebucket.

Moreover, when the bucket handle is detachably engaged with the bucket,and the handling component is receiving a lifting force parallel to thecentral longitudinal axis of the bucket, the first attachment componentcan pivot about, and then is fixed in place along, the length of thefirst attachment region, with the first groove being engaged with a rib.In this configuration, when the bucket handle is detachably engaged withthe bucket, and the handling component is receiving a lifting forceparallel to the central longitudinal axis of the bucket, the secondattachment component presses against, and is fixed in place along, thesecond attachment region.

These features, and other features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in therelevant art when the following detailed description of the preferredembodiments is read in conjunction with the appended drawings in whichlike reference numerals represent like components throughout the severalviews.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described withreference to the following drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a prior art bucketsuitable for use with the invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-section of the bucket of FIG. 1 at a first radialplane along the circumference.

FIG. 3 is a cross-section of the bucket of FIG. 1 at a second radialplane along the circumference.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a selectivelyattachable bucket handle for the bucket of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the bucket handle of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a right side view of the bucket handle of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the bucket handle of FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a selectivelyattachable bucket handle for the bucket of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of the selectively attachable buckethandle of FIG. 8 detached from the bucket of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of the selectively attachable buckethandle of FIG. 8 partially engaged with, and pivoting about, the bucketof FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of the selectively attachable buckethandle of FIG. 8 detachably engaged with the bucket of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 12 is a cross-section of the selectively attachable bucket handleand the bucket as shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first selectively attachable buckethandle of FIG. 8 and a second selectively attachable bucket handle ofFIG. 8 detachably engaged with the bucket of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a selectivelyattachable bucket handle for the bucket of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 15 is a front view of the bucket handle of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a right side view of the bucket handle of FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the bucket handle of FIG. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure provide a handle for acommon plastic bucket of the 3 to 5 gallon variety (sometimes referredto herein as the “Bucket”), such as the classic Home Depot® Leaktite®3/5 gallon bucket. Unlike prior art bucket handles for the Bucket, thebucket handle of the present disclosure is selectively attachable anddetachable to the Bucket. More specifically, the bucket handle isconfigured to detachably engage with, and accommodate, certain featuresof a Bucket such that the bucket handle is rigidly secured to theBucket, and such that the bucket handle translates a lifting force,applied to the bucket handle, to the Bucket.

In one embodiment, the bucket handle comprises a first attachmentcomponent and a second attachment component, each integral with ahandling component. When the first attachment component is detachablyengaged to a first feature of a Bucket, and a user applies a liftingforce to the handling component, the first attachment component operatesas a pivot point and as a retention point. Concomitantly, the secondattachment component, which is detachably engaged with a second featureof the Bucket, is pressed up against the second feature. The buckethandle, therefore, becomes comparatively more rigidly secured to theBucket when a net lifting force is applied to the bucket handle, thanwhen the bucket handle is at an equilibrium state.

Furthermore, the bucket handle is also configured to detachably engagewith the Bucket, without compromising the Bucket receiving a lid, suchas, for example, a Leaktite® “easy off” lid, a Leaktite® rigid hold lid,a two-piece screw lid sealing system, and all equivalents thereof. Aperson having ordinary skill in the art understands the various methodsof, and apparatus for, detachably engaging a lid with the Bucket.Preferably, when the attachment components of the bucket handle aredetachably engaged with the Bucket at a first attachment region and asecond attachment region, the attachment components do not interferewith the Bucket receiving a lid along a third attachment region.

The bucket handle is also configured to detachably engage with theBucket such that the rest of the bucket handle projects perpendicularlyaway from (that is, normal to) the side of the Bucket. In oneembodiment, when a first bucket handle is detachably engaged with theBucket, the handling component of the first bucket handle is spacedoutwardly from the Bucket. When a second bucket handle is detachablyengaged with the Bucket, antipodal to the first bucket handle, thehandling components of the two bucket handles are each, respectively,positioned to receive a lifting force parallel to, but laterally offsetfrom, the central longitudinal axis of the Bucket. The handlingcomponents, therefore, are in a comparatively easier position for a userto apply a lifting force, as compared to a wire bail handle.

Additionally, the bucket handle is configured for a user's comfortableengagement. In one embodiment, the handling component of a bucket handledefines a sufficient surface area, and an ergonomic contour, for thefingers and in some instances the palm of a user's hand. A person havingordinary skill in the art understands the necessary amount of surfacearea, and the various types of ergonomic design(s), associated with auser's comfortable engagement.

Moreover, the bucket handle is configured for efficient and effectivefabrication. One exemplary method of manufacturing the bucket handle isto cast mold one, two, or more component pieces, which than may becombined to form the integral whole. One having ordinary skill in theart understands that cast molding the elongate flat projections of acomponent piece can be difficult. To make things significantly easier,the method may comprise the mold pressing of strategic features into aregion of a troublesome component pieces. The strategic feature, such asfor example a notch or an extension, can be structured so as to alsofacilitate removal of the component piece from the cast itself.

Furthermore, the bucket handle is configured for efficient and effectivetransportation, storage, and/or display. In one embodiment, the featuresof the bucket handle having roles in other functions described herein,may be strategically positioned/aligned to be leveraged for effectiveand efficient staking of the bucket handles, for example. The notchesand extensions may be configured and aligned to complement one anotherwhen a first bucket handle, along one side, engages with a second buckethandle, along its other side.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are only forpurposes of illustrating the various embodiments of the presentdisclosure, and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIG. 1 is aperspective view of one embodiment of a prior art Leaktite® 5 gallonbucket as one illustrative embodiment of the bucket 100. The bucket 100comprises a slightly tapered cylindrical side wall 101 having a firstend 102 and a second end 104. The first end 102 is a sealed bottom andthe second end 104 defines a rim. The side wall 101 tapers lightlyoutward from the first end 102 to the second end 104. Various otherembodiments of the bucket 100 are envisioned. Running circumferentiallyaround the entirety of the side wall 101 is a collared skirt 106, afirst flange 108, and a second flange 110, each, integral with the sidewall 101.

As can be seen better in FIGS. 2 and 3, the collared skirt 106 is spacedoutwardly from the side wall 101. The side wall 101 and the collaredskirt 106 define a space 112 also running circumferentially around theentirety of the side wall 101. The collared skirt 106 is buttressed by aplurality of vertical planar ribs 114 interposed radially between theside wall 101 and the collared skirt 106. Each rib 114 is spaced apartfrom each immediately adjacent rib 114 throughout the length of thespace 114. The rib 114 also fills the cross-sectional width of the space114 as seen in FIG. 3. The collared skirt 106 provides a base forattaching a carrying handle 116. The ribs 114 add strength to thecollared skirt 106 such that when carrying the bucket 100 using thecarrying handle 116 the collared skirt 106 does not fail (bend)outwards, especially when the bucket 100 is loaded.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a selectivelyattachable bucket handle 201 for use in connection with the bucket 100.The bucket handle 201 comprises a first attachment component 202 and asecond attachment component 204, each attached to, part of, and/orintegral with a handling component 206. The first attachment component202 and the second attachment component 204 are configured to, intandem, secure the bucket handle 201 to the bucket 100, such that thehandling component 206 extends perpendicularly away from the side of thebucket 100. The first attachment component 202 and the second attachmentcomponent 204 also are configured to translate a lifting force appliedto the handling component 206 onto the bucket 100.

The first attachment component 202 and the second attachment component204 of the bucket handle 201 are structured differently from each otherand, therefore, engage the bucket 100 differently relative to eachother. The first attachment component 202 is configured to engage withand accommodate a first region of the bucket 100 proximal to thecollared skirt 106. Preferably, the first region encompasses a lengthalong the collared skirt 106, on the side adjacent to the space 112defined by the collared skirt 106 and the side wall 101, and acorresponding rib 114. The second attachment component 204 is configuredto engage with a second region of the bucket 100 proximal to the firstflange 108, and more specifically between the first flange 108 and thecollared skirt 106 or between the second flange 110 and the first flange108. Preferably, the second region encompasses a length along the firstflange 108 between the first flange and the collared skirt 106, or alongand between the first flange 108 and the second flange 110, and acorresponding length along the adjacent side wall 101.

The first attachment component 202 is spaced apart from the secondattachment component 204 (as can be seen in more detail in FIGS. 5 and6) such that a space 208 is defined between the attachment components202, 204. The space 208 is sufficiently large to accommodate thecollared skirt 106, or the collared skirt 106 and the first flange 108,depending on the embodiment of the bucket handle 201 employed. Asdiscussed in more detail herein, when the bucket handle 201 is placed onthe bucket 100, the first attachment component 202 and the secondattachment component 204 cooperate with the collared skirt 106 and thefirst flange 108, and in another embodiment also the second flange 110,whereby the collared skirt 106, and in another embodiment also the firstflange 108, are located within the space 208.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4-7, the handling component 206 of the buckethandle 201 is attached to the first attachment component 202 and thesecond attachment component 204. In certain embodiments, such as theillustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 4-7, the handling component 206is a handle-shaped or ovaloid component having a gripping region 222 andan attachment region 224 connected by spacer ends 226. The attachmentcomponents 202, 204 are secured to the handling component 206 at theattachment region 224, with the first attachment component 202 attachedto and extending outward from the bottom of the attachment region andthe second attachment component 204 attached to and extending outwardfrom the top of the attachment region 224. The space 208 is generallylocated proximal to the attachment region 224 between the firstattachment component 202 and the second attachment component 204.

The first attachment component 202 of the bucket handle 201 defines arib groove 210 preferably at a midpoint along the horizontal length ofthe top end of the first attachment component 202, effectively splittingfirst attachment component 202 into two insert sections 214. The ribgroove 210 is accessible from the space 208 defined between the firstattachment component 202 and the second attachment component 204. Therib groove 210 is configured to receive and accommodate a rib 114 whenthe first attachment component 202 is engaged with the first region ofthe bucket 100. Depending on the size of the bucket handle 201, one,two, or more rib grooves 210 can be located along the first attachmentcomponent 202. Various positions for the rib groove 210 along the lengthof the first attachment component 202 also are envisioned. It is alsoenvisioned that the rib groove 210 may being configured to receiveanother surface feature of the bucket 100 not already mentioned.

Insert sections 214 are structured to have an outer surface similar to,or at least cooperatively similar to, the inner surface of collaredskirt 106, whereby when first attachment component 202 in inserted intospace 112, insert sections 214 engage at least a portion of the innersurface of collared skirt 106, as better shown in FIG. 12. Sloped face228 of insert section 214 primarily is structured to ease the insertionof first attachment component 202 into space 112, as better shown inFIG. 10. However, depending on the desired or selected size of firstattachment component 202, sloped face 228 can contact the angled innersurface of collared skirt 106 to provide additional lifting support andstability for the bucket handle 201.

Skirt groove 216 is a space located between insert sections 214 andattachment region 224 and is sized to accommodate collared skirt 106when bucket handle 201 is attached to bucket 100. More specifically,skirt groove 216 is a slot-like space having a width equal to or greaterthan the thickness of the collared skirt 106. This can be seen ingreater detail in FIG. 12 with reference to collared skirt 106 and skirtgroove 814.

The surface contour of the handling component 206 is configured for auser's comfortable engagement. For example, the handling component 206can comprise a set of ergonomic contours 220 shaped to receive thefingers of a user's hands. The surface of the handling component 206preferably comprises a material such as plastics or other polymers, andmay comprise surface textures or non-slip materials, or be manufacturedfrom non-slip materials such as rubbers or silicon. Various other typesof ergonomic contours, surface features, and/or surface materials areenvisioned for the various embodiments of the bucket handle.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a selectivelyattachable bucket handle 801. The bucket handle 801 is similar to thebucket handle 201 of FIGS. 4-7 with the following differences. Thebucket handle 801 comprises a first attachment component 802 and asecond attachment component 804, each integral with a handling component806. As in the bucket handle 201, the attachment components 802, 804 areattached to the handling component 806 at an attachment region 824. Thesecond attachment component 804 is configured to engage with a secondregion of the bucket 100 in much the same manner as bucket handle 201.Also as in the bucket handle 201, the second region encompasses a lengthalong the first flange 108 adjacent to the collared skirt 106, or alength between the first flange 108 and the second flange 110, and acorresponding length along the adjacent side wall 101.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the rib groove 810 is broader anddifferently structured than the rib groove 210. Although broader, therib groove 810 is configured to receive a rib 114 when the firstattachment component 802 is engaged with the first region of the bucket100. It is envisioned that the rib groove 810 may be configured toreceive another surface feature of the bucket 100 not already mentioned.Whereas rib groove 210 is structured to engage a rib 114 such thatbucket handle 201 is generally prevented from sliding around collaredskirt 106 when bucket handle 201 is attached to the bucket 100, ribgroove 810 will allow bucket handle 801 to slide around collared skirt106 a limited distance. However, by having a larger rib groove 810,bucket handle 801 may be easier to attach to bucket 100 than buckethandle 201 as bucket handle 801 does not need to be as accurately placedrelative to rib 114 than does bucket handle 201.

FIGS. 9-11 illustrate the attachment of the bucket handle 801 to thebucket 100. While bucket handle 801 is used in this illustrativeshowing, the same steps are used with bucket handle 201, with anexception that the rib groove 210 of bucket handle 201 must be placedwith more care than the rib groove 810 of bucket handle 801. FIGS. 9-11also illustrate the use of a bucket handle 801 that attaches to thebucket 100 via the collared skirt 106 and a region of the bucket 100between the top of the collared skirt 106 and the bottom of the firstflange 108. The same steps can be used with a bucket handle 801, 201that attaches to the bucket 100 via the collared skirt 106 and a regionof the bucket 100 between the top of the first flange 108 and the bottomof the second flange 110.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the selectively attachable bucket handle810 of FIG. 8 detached from, but approaching, the bucket 100 inpreparation for attachment to the bucket 100. The bucket handle 801 isapproaching a length along the collared skirt 106 on the side adjacentto the space 112 (not depicted) of the bucket 100. A rib 114 (notdepicted) is interposed along the length of the space 112. The buckethandle 801 is approaching the bucket 100 at an angle such that the firstattachment component 802 is received by the space 112, and such that therib 114 is received by the rib groove 810 of the first attachmentcomponent 802, and such that the collared skirt 106 is received by thespace 808 of the bucket handle 801. Sloped face 828 can contact thebottom or inner surface of collared skirt 106 to ease entry of firstattachment component 802 into space 112.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the selectively attachable bucket handle810 of FIG. 8 partially engaged with, and pivoting about, the bucket100. The first attachment component 802 of the bucket handle 801 isreceived by the space 112 of the bucket 100. Sloped face 828 can allowfirst attachment component 802 to be more easily inserted into space112. The collared skirt 106 is received by the space 808 of the buckethandle 201. The rib 114 is received by the space 810 of the firstattachment component 802. The bucket handle 801 is pivoting about thecollared skirt 106 and approaching a length 216 along the first flange108, on the side adjacent to the collared skirt 106, as can be seen incross-sectional detail in FIG. 12.

Similar to as discussed in connection with bucket handle 201, skirtgroove 814 is a space located between first attachment component 802 andattachment region 824 and is sized to accommodate collared skirt 106when bucket handle 801 is attached to bucket 100. More specifically,skirt groove 814 is a slot-like space having a width equal to or greaterthan the thickness of the collared skirt 106. Preferably, a length 212along the rim of the collared skirt 106 of the bucket 100 is fullyreceived by skirt groove 814. The skirt groove 814 is accessible fromspace 808 of the bucket handle 801 (space 808 is the analogous to space208). The skirt groove 814 runs tangentially perpendicular to the ribgroove 810. The skirt groove 814 is configured to receive/accommodatethe length 212, and retain it in place, as the second attachmentcomponent 804 pivots towards the length 218 of the first flange 108.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the selectively attachable bucket handle801 of FIG. 8 detachably engaged with the bucket 100. The firstattachment component 802 of the bucket handle 801 is fully received inthe space 112 of the bucket 100 (see FIG. 12). The collared skirt 106 isreceived by the space 808 of the bucket handle 801 (See FIG. 12). Therib 114 is received by the space 810 of the first attachment component802. The second attachment component 804 is fully engaged with thelength 218 of the first flange 108. The handling component 806 of thebucket handle 801 is spaced outwardly, and is extending perpendicularlyaway, from the side wall 101 of the bucket 100.

More specifically, the length 212 of the bucket 100 is fully received bythe skirt groove 814 of the bucket handle 201. Because the secondattachment component 804 of the bucket handle 801 presses up against thelength 218 along the first flange 108, as a lifting force is beingapplied, the bucket handle 801 can no longer pivot about the collaredskirt 106 and the bucket handle 801 is fixed in place about the bucket100.

If the bucket handle 801 had a second attachment component 804structured like the second attachment component 204 of FIGS. 4-7, asdescribed herein, the top side of the second attachment component 804would engaged with the bottom side of the length 218 of the first flange108 facing the collared skirt 106. This would result in a press fitforce that translates across the bucket handle 801. Because the firstflange 108 presses down against the second attachment component 804, thepress fit force results in retention of the length 212 in the skirtgroove 214 even when no lifting force is being applied.

In an embodiment of the bucket handle 801 where second attachmentcomponent 804 fits between collared skirt 106 and first flange 108, thebottom surface 832 of second attachment component 804 can have a slopesimilar to the top slope of the upper outer surface 834 of collaredskirt 106. In this manner, the bottom surface 832 of second attachmentcomponent 804 can contact the upper outer surface 834 of collared skirt106 and provide additional stability for the bucket handle 801 on thebucket 100. The same is true for bucket handle 201. In an embodiment ofthe bucket handle 801 where the second attachment component 804 fitsbetween the first flange 108 and the second flange 110, both the top andbottom surfaces of the second attachment component 804 can behorizontally flat so as to contact the upper surface of flange 108 andthe lower surface of second flange 110. The same also is true for buckethandle 201.

In the particular embodiment of FIG. 11, the second attachment component804 of the bucket handle 801 is also engaged with an adjacent length 218(see FIG. 12) along the side wall 101 of the bucket 100. Otherembodiments of the bucket handle may not necessarily engage with theside wall 101, and may not involve a press fit force. Various othermeans of retaining engagement of the first attachment component 202, 802with the bucket 100, and/or retaining engagement of the secondattachment component 204, 804 are envisioned for the various embodimentsof the bucket handle, such as, for example, cooperating male and femalesnaps, surface features for fastening, mechanical adjustment of thespace between the attachment components of the bucket handle, and thelike.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of two bucket handles 302, 304 detachablyengaged with the bucket 100. The first bucket handle 302 and the secondbucket handle 304 are each versions of bucket handle 201 or 801, andengage with the bucket 100 as described. More specifically, the secondbucket handle 304 is attached to the bucket 100 antipodal to the firstbucket handle 302, about the circumference of the bucket 100. Because ofthe engagement between the bucket handles 302, 304 and the collaredskirt 106 of the bucket 100, the engagement between the rib 114 and thebucket handles 302, 304, and the engagement between the bucket handles302, 304 and the first flange 108 of the bucket 100, the first buckethandle 302 and the second bucket handle 304 are fixed in their antipodalpositions.

Moreover, as the handling portions 206, 806 of the first bucket handle302 and second bucket handle 304 are spaced outwardly, and extendingperpendicularly away, from the bucket 100, the first bucket handle 302and the second bucket handle 304 are each, respectively, configured toreceive a lifting force parallel to, but laterally offset from, thecentral longitudinal axis of the bucket 100. The first bucket handle 302and the second bucket handle 304 each, respectively, becomes morerigidly secured to the bucket 100 as a net lifting force is applied tothat particular bucket handle 302, 304.

As the first bucket handle 302 and second bucket handle 304 arepositioned no closer to the rim 104 of the bucket 100 than the firstflange 108, the bucket 100 is not compromised from receiving a lid tocover the opening to the bucket 100. The attachment means of any lid maybe freely received by the bucket 100 along the rim 104, the secondflange 110, the space between the first flange 108 and the second flange110, and up to the side of the first flange 108 adjacent to the secondflange 110. Various other lid engagement regions for the bucket 100 areenvisioned for the various embodiments of the bucket handle of thepresent invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a selectivelyattachable bucket handle 901 for use in connection with the bucket 100.The bucket handle 901 is similar to the bucket handle 801 of FIGS. 8-12with the following differences. The bucket handle 901 comprises a firstattachment component 902 and a second attachment component 904, eachintegral with a handling component 906. The first attachment component902 defines a broad rib groove 910, effectively splitting firstattachment component 902 into two insert sections 914. The broad ribgroove 910 is configured to receive a rib 114 when the first attachmentcomponent 902 is engaged with the first region of the bucket 100. Therib groove 910 will allow bucket handle 901 to slide around collaredskirt 106 a limited distance.

The insert sections 914 are structured to have an outer surface similarto, or at least cooperatively similar to, the inner surface of collaredskirt 106, whereby when first attachment component 202 in inserted intospace 112, insert sections 214 engage at least a portion of the innersurface of collared skirt 106. Sloped face 928 of insert section 914primarily is structured to ease the insertion of first attachmentcomponent 902 into space 112.

Skirt groove 916 is a space located between insert sections 914 andattachment region 224 and is sized to accommodate collared skirt 106when bucket handle 201 is attached to bucket 100. More specifically,skirt groove 916 is a slot-like space having a width equal to or greaterthan the thickness of the collared skirt 106. The skirt groove 914 isaccessible from a space 908 of the bucket handle 901 (space 908 is theanalogous to space 808). The skirt groove 916 runs tangentiallyperpendicular to the rib groove 910. The skirt groove 916 is configuredto receive/accommodate the length 212, and retain it in place, as thesecond attachment component 904 pivots towards the length 218 of thefirst flange 108.

As in bucket handle 801, the attachment components 902, 904 are attachedto the handling component 906 at an attachment region 924. The secondattachment component 904 is configured to engage with a second region ofthe bucket 100 in much the same manner as bucket handle 801. Also as inbucket handle 801, the second region encompasses a length along thefirst flange 108 adjacent to the collared skirt 106, or a length betweenthe first flange 108 and the second flange 110, and a correspondinglength along the adjacent side wall 101.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the handling component 906 can bebroader and more rounded than handling component 806. This provides moresurface area and more rounded contour for the user engaging with thebucket handle 901. Moreover, the insertion sections 914 can be slightlylonger and encroach further into the space 908 than insertion sections814. Moreover, the first attachment component 902 comprises downwardlyextending extensions 950 and the second attachment component 904comprises notches 970.

The extensions 950 are positioned to extend downwardly off of the sideor face of the first attachment component 902 opposite the side or faceadjacent to the space 908. In this particular embodiment, the extensions950 are aligned with and have approximately the same width as theinsertion sections 914; however, the extensions 950 may take variousstructures, shapes, and configurations. In another embodiment, theextensions 950 may be slightly smaller than the notches 970 such thatthe extensions 950 can more easily slide into the notches 970, asdisclosed in more detail herein.

The notches 970 are defined along the length of the second attachmentcomponent 904 such that the notches 970 open downwardly into the space908 and upwardly opposite the space 908. In this particular embodiment,the notches 970 are aligned with and have the same or approximately thesame width as the insertion sections 914; however, the notices 970 maytake various structures, shapes, and configurations. The notches 970 areconfigured to complement and correspond to the extensions 950 such thateach individual extension 950 can engage and fit within its own notch970. Thus, it may be advantageous for the notches 970 to be slightlylarger than the extensions 950 for ease of insertion of the extensions950 into the notches 970.

Therefore, the bucket handle 901 is configured for efficient andeffective fabrication. More specifically, the notches 970 and/or theextensions 950 allow a manufacturer to more injection or cast mold theparticular component piece. Moreover, if that particular component pieceis part of a cast molding manufacturing process, the notches 970 and/orthe extensions 950 allow the manufacturer to have easy access under themold and onto something graspable. In other words, as the notches 970and/or the extensions 950 are positioned equally spaced, or variablyspaced, along the second attachment component 904 and the firstattachment component 902, respectively, and the notches 970 directlyabove the insertion sections 914 and therefor also directly above theextensions 950, these elongate flat portions can be more easily removedfrom an injection or cast mold.

Additionally, the bucket handle 901 is configured for efficient andeffective transportation, storage, and/or display as each individualbucket handle 901 can stack neatly, tightly, and stably upon anotherbucket handle 901. For example, when stacking bucket handles 901, theextensions 950 of an upper bucket handle 901 can fit within the notches970 of a lower bucket handle 901, thus providing a more stable stackingconfiguration.

It is envisioned that the various embodiments of the bucket handle 201,801, 901 may be one contiguous discrete piece that is forged or molded.It is also envisioned that the various embodiments of the bucket handle201, 801, 901 may be a composite of multiple discrete and/ornon-discrete component pieces that are permanently and/or detachablyengaged with one another. A person having ordinary skill in the artrecognizes that the various embodiments of the bucket handle 201, 801,901 may be made of any material(s). A person having ordinary skill inthe art of manufacturing understands the intricacies and fine details ofbuilding and structuring the various embodiments of the bucket handle201, 801, 901.

The total height from the bottom of the first attachment component 202,802, 902 to the top of the second attachment component 204, 804, 904 isdetermined by the size of the bucket 100 to which it is attached. Formany suitable buckets 100, this distance is between 1.5 and 3.5 inches,preferably between 2.0 and 3.0 inches, and more preferably in the rangeof 2.0 to 2.5 inches. The total height of the space 108, 208, 908preferably is at least 1 inch so as to accommodate at least the collaredskirt 106. Various other combinations of dimensions are envisioned forthe various embodiments of the bucket handle 201, 801, 901.

The horizontal length of the first attachment component 202, 802, 902and the second attachment component 204, 804, 904 each, respectively, isdetermined by the size of the bucket 100 to which it is attached. Formany suitable buckets 100, this length is between 2.5 and 5.0 inches,preferably between 3.0 and 4.0 inches, and more preferably in the rangeof 3.2 to 3.8 inches. Various other combinations of dimensions areenvisioned for the various embodiments of the bucket handle 201, 801,901.

The height from the bottom of the handling component to the top of thehandling component preferably is at least 0.5 inch and more preferablybetween 0.7 and 2.0 inches. Various other combinations of dimensions areenvisioned for the various embodiments of the bucket handle 201, 801,901.

It is also envisioned that the various embodiments of the bucket handle201, 801, 901 may be lined by a no slip or slip resistant materials.This is especially true for any handling components of the bucket handle201, 801, 901. It is also envisioned that any component of the buckethandle 201, 801, 901 that may come into contact with the bucket 100 maybe lined by a corrosion resistant materials. A person having ordinaryskill in the art understands that the bucket handles 201, 801, 901 maybe scaled in size for any application or use, or for variations in thebucket 100 to which it attaches.

Although the particular embodiments shown and described above will proveto be useful in many applications in the handle art to which the presentinvention pertains, further modifications of the present invention willoccur to persons skilled in the art. All such modifications are deemedto be within the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined bythe appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A selectively attachable bucket handle for abucket, the bucket having a cylindrical side wall with a rim, the bucketalso having a collared skirt and at least one flange integral with andrunning circumferentially around the side wall, the collared skirtspaced outwardly from the side wall such that a space is defined betweenthe collared skirt and the side wall, a plurality of vertical planarribs interposed radially along the space and buttressing the collaredskirt, the selectively attachable bucket handle comprising: a) ahandling component; and b) a first attachment component and a secondattachment component, each, integral with, and spaced from, the handlingcomponent, the first attachment component configured to detachablyengage with a length along the collared skirt and a corresponding rib ofa bucket, the second attachment component configured to detachablyengage with a length along the at least one flange of a bucket; wherein,when the bucket handle is detachably engaged with a bucket via the firstattachment component and the second attachment component: the firstattachment component and the second attachment component are fixed inplace along the length of the collared skirt and along the length of theat least one flange, respectively; and the first attachment component,the second attachment component, and the handling component areintegrated such that a lifting force, applied to the handling component,is translated onto the bucket.
 2. The selectively attachable buckethandle of claim 1, wherein the length along the collared skirt of thebucket is on the side adjacent to the space between the collared skirtand the side wall, and the length along the at least one flange of thebucket is on the side wall between the at least one flange and thecollared skirt.
 3. The selectively attachable bucket handle of claim 1,wherein the first attachment component, the second attachment component,and the handling component of the bucket handle are elongated, thelongitudinal length of the first attachment component is parallel to thelongitudinal length of the second attachment component such that a spaceis defined there between, and the longitudinal length of the handlingcomponent is parallel to the space between the first attachmentcomponent and the second attachment component.
 4. The selectivelyattachable bucket handle of claim 1, wherein the first attachmentcomponent of the bucket handle comprises a rib groove along its length,the rib groove configured to receive the corresponding rib of a bucket.5. The selectively attachable bucket handle of claim 1, wherein thehandling component of the bucket handle is configured for manualengagement by a user.
 6. The selectively attachable bucket handle ofclaim 5, wherein the handling component of the bucket handle has anon-slip surface defining a set of ergonomic contours.
 7. Theselectively attachable bucket handle of claim 1, wherein, when thebucket handle is detachably engaged with a bucket via the firstattachment component and the second attachment component, the handlingcomponent extends away from the bucket and is positioned to receive alifting force parallel to, but laterally offset from, the centrallongitudinal axis of the bucket.
 8. The selectively attachable buckethandle of claim 1, wherein, when the bucket handle is detachably engagedwith a bucket via the first attachment component and the secondattachment component, neither the first attachment component, the secondattachment component, nor the handling component interfere with thesecond flange or the rim.
 9. A selectively attachable bucket handle fora bucket, comprising: a) a handling component; and b) a first attachmentcomponent and a second attachment component, each integral with andspaced from the handling component, the first attachment componentconfigured to detachably engage with a first attachment region of abucket, the second attachment component configured to detachably engagewith a second attachment region of a bucket; wherein, when the buckethandle is detachably engaged with a bucket, the first attachmentcomponent, the second attachment component, and the handling componentare integrated such that a lifting force, applied to the handlingcomponent, is translated onto the bucket; and wherein, when the buckethandle is detachably engaged with a bucket and the handling component isreceiving a lifting force parallel to the central longitudinal axis ofthe bucket, the first attachment component pivots about, and is fixed inplace along, the first attachment region, and the second attachmentcomponent presses against, and is fixed in place along, the secondattachment region.
 10. The selectively attachable bucket handle of claim9, wherein the first attachment component, the second attachmentcomponent, and the handling component of the bucket handle areelongated, the longitudinal length of the first attachment component isparallel to the longitudinal length of the second attachment componentsuch that a space is defined there between, and the longitudinal lengthof the handling component is parallel to the space between the firstattachment component and the second attachment component.
 11. Theselectively attachable bucket handle of claim 9, wherein the firstattachment component of the bucket handle comprises a rib groove alongits length.
 12. The selectively attachable bucket handle of claim 9,wherein the handling component of the bucket handle is configured formanual engagement by a user.
 13. The selectively attachable buckethandle of claim 12, wherein the handling component of the bucket handlehas a non-slip surface defining a set of ergonomic contours.
 14. Theselectively attachable bucket handle of claim 1, wherein, when thebucket handle is detachably engaged with a bucket, neither the firstattachment component, nor the second attachment component, nor thehandling component interfere with a lid receiving region of the bucket.15. The selectively attachable bucket handle of claim 1, wherein thefirst attachment component of the bucket handle comprises a skirt groovealong its length, the skirt groove configured to engage with a lengthalong the first attachment region of the bucket.
 16. A selectivelyattachable bucket handle for a bucket, comprising: a) a handlingcomponent; and b) a first attachment component and a second attachmentcomponent, each integral with and spaced from the handling component,the first attachment component and the second attachment componentdefining an attachment space there between, the first attachmentcomponent comprising a first groove along its length, the first grooveaccessible from the attachment space and configured to engage with alength along a first attachment region of a bucket, the secondattachment component configured to detachably engage with a secondattachment region of a bucket; wherein, when the bucket handle isdetachably engaged with a bucket, the first attachment component, thesecond attachment component, and the handling component are integratedsuch that a lifting force, applied to the handling component, istranslated onto a bucket; and wherein, when the bucket handle isdetachably engaged with a bucket, and the handling component isreceiving a lifting force parallel to the central longitudinal axis of abucket: the first attachment component pivots about, and is fixed inplace along, the length of the first attachment region engaged with thefirst groove; and the second attachment component presses against, andis fixed in place along, the second attachment region.
 17. Theselectively attachable bucket handle of claim 16, wherein the firstattachment component, the second attachment component, and the handlingcomponent of the bucket handle are elongated, the longitudinal length ofthe first attachment component is parallel to the longitudinal length ofthe second attachment component, and the longitudinal length of thehandling component is parallel to the attachment space between the firstattachment component and the second attachment component.
 18. Theselectively attachable bucket handle of claim 16, wherein the firstattachment component of the bucket handle additionally comprises asecond groove along its length, the second groove perpendicular to thefirst groove of the first attachment component.
 19. The selectivelyattachable bucket handle of claim 16, wherein the handling component ofthe bucket handle has a non-slip surface defining a set of ergonomiccontours.
 20. The selectively attachable bucket handle of claim 1,wherein, when the bucket handle is detachably engaged with a bucket viathe first attachment component and the second attachment component,neither the first attachment component, nor the second attachmentcomponent, nor the handling component interfere with a lid receivingregion of the bucket.